Stop thinking in terms of ounces and cups for your starter and you won't be wasting anything. I maintain about 1 tablespoon of starter at any time and am able to grow it to a rather large and healthy sponge within two or three days. I use all but a teaspoon or so of the starter when baking bread. Take that small amount, feed it and keep it small until you wish to bake. I never have "unfed" (unhealthy) starter and I dont waste anything.

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